Date

5-23-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Mollie Evans-Boyd

Keywords

intimate partner violence, victims, religious coping theory, faith leaders, perpetrators, help-seeking

Disciplines

Counseling | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe the perspectives of African-American pastors’ experiences with (IPV) among their congregation members. This study applied the religious coping theory (RCT) to the experiences of African American pastors with IPV among church members. This helped the study provide valuable insights into how pastors utilize religious beliefs, practices, and support systems in addressing and supporting individuals affected by IPV. African-American pastors may encourage individuals experiencing IPV to seek solace, strength, and guidance through their religious faith. Understanding how pastors utilize religious coping strategies has contributed to fostering safer environments and more effective support systems for those impacted by IPV in the African-American community. In-depth interviews utilizing open-ended questions elicited rich narratives and provided a comprehensive understanding of the participating pastors’ perspectives. Several steps were followed in the process of interpreting phenomenological data. The data analysis encompassed a comprehensive review of the data content, coding, thematic analysis, and reflection. Particularly, this researcher conducted a thematic analysis to describe and interpret the meanings of lived experiences during the phenomenological analysis. A phenomenological reflection was a valuable approach, which allowed the researcher to gain a deep and introspective exploration of participants' lived experiences.

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